WH Haveli Dharampura

Historical Background

Haveli in Dharampura with its distinctive features, it is attributed as Late Mughal style, though part of it is a later addition in the 20th century. During Mughal and late Mughal period, a large number of havelis were built by the courtiers. Historical references suggest that construction of the haveli dates to 1887 AD. It was originally designed to have a mixed-use pattern i.e both residential and commercial. Shops on the lower ground floor that open towards the street and the remaining floors designed as residence portray the mixed use of haveli. The ground floor with a grand entrance and first floor were constructed at the same period, while second floor clearly seems to be a later addition at much later stage in the mid 20th century.

Brief Description

The name Dharampura of the locality was named after the word ‘Dharam’ – religion, likely because of the large number of small and big religious institutions including Jain temples. The building is situated in close proximity of historic Jama Masjid having direct access though Gali Gulian and then opening into Gali Anar with beautiful sandstone arched entrance with decorative features on the way to haveli. The other approach is through Dariba Kalan, famous jewellery market, and then walking through Kucha Seth which was magnificent and Historic Jain temples with beautiful carvings in it leading to the Haveli.

The Haveli was a part of residential zone historically, but at present converted into a core commercial area. The approach towards the building is only a 5′ narrow alley, giving a feeling of vintage memory lane. The Haveli has narrowest gali on its backside. The surroundings of the Haveli still bears the evidences of history through its physical features. Brackets, balconies, jharokas, multifoliated arched gateway, carved sandstone facades and wooden doorway.